I can’t tell you how many cozy nights have been made better by a steaming bowl of Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup. This recipe is my go-to comfort food — creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor from roasted garlic, melted cheddar, and a medley of fragrant herbs. When I say this soup warms you from the inside out, I mean it! Whether you’re curling up by the fire or feeding a hungry family, Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup delivers that homemade goodness we all crave.
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Overview of the Recipe
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is everything you love about a classic potato soup — but with extra depth from roasted garlic and herbs. Sharp cheddar cheese melts into the creamy broth, creating the perfect harmony of richness and savory goodness. It’s the kind of soup that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your heart happy.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting.
- Loaded with herbs and roasted garlic for unbeatable flavor.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Perfect for meal prep — reheats beautifully.
- Family-friendly and hearty enough to serve as a main dish.
What Does This Soup Taste Like?
Imagine tender chunks of potato swimming in a velvety broth infused with roasted garlic and fresh herbs, all blanketed in sharp cheddar. The flavor is deep, savory, and perfectly balanced — a little buttery, a little garlicky, and a lot delicious. It’s everything comfort food should be.
Benefits of Making This Recipe
- Budget-friendly and filling.
- Great for cold weather and cozy evenings.
- Customizable — add bacon, ham, or veggies.
- Naturally gluten-free if thickened with cornstarch instead of flour.
Ingredients for Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 5 cups)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 head roasted garlic for extra flavor)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh herbs)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for warmth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled bacon
- Chopped green onions or chives
- Extra cheese
- Fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil
Necessary Tools for Preparation
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Potato masher or immersion blender
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Potatoes: Yukon golds create a creamier texture; russets give a fluffier result.
- Cheese: Try smoked cheddar, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a twist.
- Cream substitute: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
- Broth: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
- Add-ins: Corn, carrots, or diced ham make this soup even heartier.
How to Make Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add diced potatoes, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Mash or Blend
For a chunkier soup, use a potato masher to gently crush some of the potatoes in the pot. For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
Step 4: Stir in Dairy and Cheese
Stir in milk and cream. Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring constantly until fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Thicken (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker soup, mix flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the soup and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with bacon, extra cheddar, and fresh herbs. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping — the ultimate cozy meal!
What to Serve with Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup
- Crusty sourdough bread or homemade biscuits.
- Side salad with vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty lunch combo.
- Roasted vegetables or a simple Caesar salad for dinner.
Tips for Perfect Potato Soup
- Don’t let it boil after adding cheese. High heat can make the cheese separate.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt — pre-shredded cheese can be grainy.
- Season in layers. Taste as you go to balance saltiness and herb flavors.
- Roast the garlic first for a deeper, sweeter flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often. For freezing, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. (Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.)
General Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based toppings.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely — stir them in during Step 4 to thicken and add creaminess.
What herbs work best?
A mix of thyme, rosemary, and parsley is perfect, but feel free to add dill, oregano, or even basil for a twist.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly shredded cheddar melts better and gives a creamier texture.
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter, almond or oat milk instead of dairy, and vegan cheddar shreds.
Conclusion
This Hearty Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is everything you want in a bowl of comfort — creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes you pause between bites just to smile because it tastes like home. Whether it’s a chilly fall evening or a weeknight dinner, this soup always hits the spot.